Virgil Thomson
Composer and music critic, Pulitzer Prize winner
A prominent American composer and music critic, contributed significantly to American classical music in the 20th century. Studied at the University of Kansas and later in Europe, where exposure to nationalistic composers influenced musical style. Thomson's works included operas, orchestral compositions, and chamber music. Achieved acclaim for the opera "Four Saints in Three Acts," which featured a libretto by Gertrude Stein. Served as a music critic for the New York Herald Tribune, providing insight into the music scene.
Composed the opera 'Four Saints in Three Acts'
Received the Pulitzer Prize for Music in 1949
Other People Born on November 25th
Winthrop Ames
Theater director and playwright
Born
November 25th, 1870 155 years ago
Died
1937 89 years ago — 67 years old
Significant contributions made to American theater during the early 20th century. Directed and produced numerous plays, enhancing the cultural landscape of the time. Established the Brandeis Theatre in 1950 and played a crucial role in the promotion of new American works. Fostered relationships with various playwrights and artists, contributing to the development of the theatrical community.
Continue ReadingAna Bogdan
Romanian tennis player and WTA tour participant
Born
November 25th, 1992 33 years ago
A professional tennis player with a career high WTA singles ranking of No. 39 achieved in 2018. Competed in major tournaments including the Australian Open, French Open, Wimbledon, and US Open. Participated in the ITF Women's Circuit, securing multiple titles, contributing to her rise in the singles rankings.
Continue ReadingChevon Troutman
Basketball player with notable college success
Born
November 25th, 1981 44 years ago
Played college basketball at the University of Pittsburgh where significant contributions were made to the team. Achieved First-Team All-Big East honors during the 2003-2004 season. After college, played professionally in various leagues, including stints in Europe. His tenure in the sport is marked by a strong presence in both offensive and defensive roles.
Continue ReadingKristian Nairn
Actor and DJ from Northern Ireland
Born
November 25th, 1975 50 years ago
An actor and DJ, gained prominence for portraying Hodor in the television series Game of Thrones. In addition to acting, career as a DJ covers a range of electronic music genres. Performed at various music festivals and events worldwide, establishing a following within the dance music community.
Continue ReadingElsie J. Oxenham
Author of children's literature
Born
November 25th, 1880 145 years ago
Died
January 9th, 1960 66 years ago — 79 years old
An English author and educator, contributed significantly to children's literature in the early 20th century. Best recognized for a series of books featuring girls' schools, particularly the Abbey School series. Many stories revolved around themes of friendship, adventure, and growing up. The works often reflected values of camaraderie and resilience, appealing to young readers of the time. In addition to writing, also engaged in educational pursuits, promoting literacy and education among children.
Continue ReadingNikolai Vavilov
Botanist and geneticist, seed collector
Born
November 25th, 1887 138 years ago
Died
January 26th, 1943 83 years ago — 55 years old
A prominent botanist and geneticist, contributions included significant work on plant genetics and the collection of seeds. Established the Vavilov Institute of Plant Industry in Saint Petersburg, which became a leading institution in agricultural science. Conducted extensive research on seed diversity, leading to the identification of centers of origin for cultivated plants. Arrested during the Stalinist purges, died while imprisoned due to starvation.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on September 30th
Al Holbert
Race car driver and champion team owner
Born
November 11th, 1946 79 years ago
Died
September 30th, 1988 37 years ago — 41 years old
Started racing in the 1970s, competed at various levels including the SCCA Trans-Am series and IMSA. Achieved significant success in sports car racing, particularly with the Porsche 962. Won the IMSA GTP championship in 1986, 1987, and 1989. In addition to driving, owned and managed a successful racing team that fielded cars in several championships. Contributed to the development of Porsche's racing programs and mentored several up-and-coming drivers during his career. Tragically lost life in an aviation accident in 2004.
Continue ReadingFulke Greville
English poet and 1st Baron Brooke
Born
October 3rd, 1554 471 years ago
Died
September 30th, 1628 397 years ago — 73 years old
Born in 1554, a prominent English poet and playwright. Served as a courtier and friend to Queen Elizabeth I. Greville's poetry reflects themes of love, mortality, and political intrigue, combining personal and philosophical insights. An accomplished statesman, he held various governmental positions and was a member of the House of Lords. The literary work 'Caelica' is one of the key works attributed to him, showcasing his poetic talent and depth of thought.
Continue ReadingVladimir Voevodsky
Mathematician recognized for work in topology
Born
June 4th, 1966 59 years ago
Died
September 30th, 2017 8 years ago — 51 years old
Contributions to mathematics included work on homotopy theory and algebraic geometry. Developed the theory of univalent foundations, advocating for a simplified approach to set theory. Received the Fields Medal in 2002 for significant advancements in the field, particularly in the development of modern algebraic topology. Also held a position as a professor at the Institute for Advanced Study in Princeton, New Jersey, where further research was conducted on higher category theory.
Continue ReadingJanet Powell
Australian politician and educator
Born
September 29th, 1942 83 years ago
Died
September 30th, 2013 12 years ago — 71 years old
An Australian educator and politician, served in the Victorian Legislative Council from 1988 to 1999. Contributed significantly to educational policy and reform during tenure. Instrumental in women’s advocacy and issues related to education. Worked in various educational roles prior to entering politics, promoting enhancements in teaching and learning in Australia.
Continue ReadingGuido Altarelli
Physicist and academic contributed to particle physics
Born
1941 85 years ago
Died
September 30th, 2015 10 years ago — 74 years old
Contributions to particle physics included work on the theory of quantum chromodynamics and deep inelastic scattering. Played a significant role in the European Organization for Nuclear Research (CERN) and influenced research methodologies in high-energy physics. Authored several papers that advanced the understanding of fundamental particles and their interactions, particularly during the development of the Standard Model. Served as a professor at various universities, shaping future physicists through education and mentorship.
Continue ReadingDikembe Mutombo
Basketball player and humanitarian
Born
June 25th, 1966 59 years ago
Died
September 30th, 2024 1 years ago — 58 years old
Born in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, a professional basketball player transitioned to the NBA, where a career spanned from 1991 to 2009. Primarily played as a center for teams such as the Philadelphia 76ers, Atlanta Hawks, and Houston Rockets. Achieved significant recognition as a defensive specialist, earning four NBA Defensive Player of the Year awards. Contributed to teams reaching the playoffs multiple times, including a standout performance in leading the 76ers to the Eastern Conference Finals in 2001. Retired from basketball and established the Dikembe Mutombo Foundation, focusing on health and education in Africa.
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